RichardA. "Rich" Dusza

Richard A. Dusza 1947 - 2012 WEST WARREN - Richard "Rich" Dusza, 65 passed away unexpectedly at home on Friday afternoon, May 25. He was born in Ludlow on January 17, 1947 and was raised in Indian Orchard. He graduated from Springfield Technical High School and immediately enlisted in the United States Air Force. Richard served four years active duty where he worked as a Crew Chief. He completed his time in the Air Force as a Sergeant. He went on to serve in the United States Naval Reserve in the Sea Bees for the next 18 years. Rich retired from his military career in January of 1991 with the rank of Builder First Class. Throughout his life, Rich's deep love for his country was obvious not only in his beliefs, but also in his actions. He proudly served our country with a total of 22 years of combined military service. Rich's strong sense of patriotism has been passed on to his four sons. In his civilian work life, he was a long time employee at W.E. Wright as a mechanic, a machinist at Warren Pumps, and most recently a maintenance technician at OFS in Sturbridge. Rich was set to officially retire in July. Rich was predeceased by his father Henry Dusza. He leaves behind his mother, Nell Wolenski Dusza of Indian Orchard, a brother, Wayne Dusza and his wife Liz, of Longmeadow, a sister, Gloria (Dusza) Bessette and her husband David of Ludlow, his loving wife of 38 years, Linda (Sablack) Dusza, four sons; Randy Dusza, and his wife Michelle of West Brookfield, Keith Dusza of Granby, Jeff Dusza of Belchertown, and Jason Dusza of West Warren. He had two grandchildren; Alexandra J. Dusza of Easton, Maine and Zachary T. Dusza of West Brookfield as well as 13 nieces and nephews. He was a member of Saint Stanislaus Catholic Church in West Warren. He was well known in town as a 'true New England sports fan'. He also enjoyed the outdoors, golfing, and had a love and passion for horse racing. He was a member of the St. Stanislaus Society. As he and his wife settled down to raise their four boys, Richard applied pride and commitment to his civic duties as a coach. He was a well liked, dedicated coach of youth little league baseball and basketball. He was known affectionately around town as "Coach Dusza" during the 1980's and early 1990's. He is remembered fondly for 'always being fair' and 'giving every kid a chance.' Richard filled many roles through his life and gave to his country and community as a serviceman, mechanic, machinist, and coach. His absence will be felt throughout the small community of West Warren. However, he will be missed most greatly in the role he holds in his family's hearts as a most loving and devoted husband, father, and grandfather. A Funeral Mass for Richard will be held Friday, June 1, 2012 at Noon in St. Stanislaus Church in West Warren. Calling hours will be held Thursday, May 31, from 6 to 8 PM in the Varnum Funeral Home, Inc., 43 East Main St., West Brookfield. Following the burial Richard's family would like to invite everyone to St. Stanislaus Society on South St. in West Warren for a gathering and celebration of Richard's life.